The bipartisan caucus will provide a forum for members of Congress to engage in constructive dialogue on the challenges and needs of mass transit agencies across the country as increasing demand and decreasing funding are putting unprecedented pressure on America's public transportation systems.

"Public transportation is vital to people from all walks of life in communities all across northeastern Illinois. Buses, trains and light rail that run safely and reliably reduce congestion on our roads, improve travel times across all modes, cut down on air pollution and make our communities more attractive places to live, work and own businesses," said Lipinski, who sits on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. "Maintaining and improving our public transportation systems must be a part of the solution to creating jobs at home and ensuring our competitiveness in the global marketplace. I look forward to joining Congressman Grimm in calling attention to these issues as co-chair of the new Congressional Public Transportation Caucus."

"New York City has the largest public transit system in the nation, transporting millions of commuters each day by bus, rail and ferry," Grimm said. "A strong public transport system is crucial to our economy and our livelihood, which is why it must be maintained and updated to meet growing demand and ensure the highest levels of safety. Unfortunately, there is currently a gap between where our public transportation infrastructure needs to be and where it is today, which is why this caucus is so important. As co-chair of the Congressional Public Transportation Caucus, I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle on solutions that will improve our aging public transportation system and bring it well into the 21st century."